Boy Scouts of America to Allow Transgender Members

The Boy Scouts of America will begin accepting transgender applicants immediately, following a recent policy change. The new policy bases eligibility on gender identity rather than applicants’ birth certificates, reported Emanuella Grinberg on CNN’s website.

The organization has been criticized for lack of inclusivity in the past and only recently allowed gay scouts and scout masters to join. Several months ago, a transgender cub scout stated he had been kicked out of the organization because of his gender.

Several months ago, a transgender cub scout stated he had been kicked out of the organization because of his gender.

Chief Scout Executive Michael Surbaugh released a video statement in which he said, “We’ve taken the opportunity to evaluate and update our approach. I hope you’ll join with me in embracing the opportunity to bring scouting to more families and children who can benefit from what the organization has to offer.”

The Boy Scouts of America is the latest of several youth organizations that have created more inclusive policies in recent months. The Girl Scouts of the United States of America set the bar for inclusion in May of last year when they publicly announce their policies of accepting transgender girls as members.

Julie Parish, a transgender Reading resident who was in the Boy Scouts from age 11 to 18, stated, “It’s a good thing. I’m glad they’re finally making progress.”

To read the full article about the Boy Scouts’ recent policy changes, click here.